Google Finally Acknowledges Mystery Barges, But Only Encourages More Mystery

After two weeks of free press, Google finally confirmed the existence of its so-called "mystery barges" parked near San Francisco and Portland, Maine (and who knows where else). That doesn't mean they've explained what's inside, however.

Google Barge … A floating data center? A wild party boat? A barge housing the last remaining dinosaur? Sadly, none of the above. Although it’s still early days and things may change, we’re exploring using the barge as an interactive space where people can learn about new technology.

Okay, that could mean anything. Technically, the Maplin down the road is also "an interactive space where people can learn about new technology." So is a science museum. Ditto for B&Q. Did you take chemistry in high school? Chances are, class was held in "an interactive space where people can learn about new technology."

So, while it's good that Google has claimed ownership over a project that everybody already knew they owned, we're still left in the dark about what they're actually planning to do with it. This statement is the equivalent of someone plugging in a nightlight across the room. It gives you something to stare at, but you're still clueless about what else is in the room. [TechCrunch]